Self-drive Chile: Off the beaten track
14 days from £4,600
Explore the tour day by day, from the highlights to the quieter moments in between. Here’s how each day unfolds and what to expect along the way.
Transfer from Santiago airport to your hotel in Lastarria, an up-and-coming, arty residential district. The capital is set in a broad valley between snow-capped ranges of the Andes and a smaller coastal range with a distinctly Mediterranean feel. It’s a huge metropolis: a mix of the old and the contemporary, with districts of tree-lined avenues and affluent tranquillity and others full of commercial bustle. Poorer districts sprawl on the outskirts.
Ismael is a sleek, modern property facing the Parque Forestal on the edge of the bohemian neighbourhood of Lastarria. With just 40 or so guest rooms it’s feels more personal than larger chain-style properties in the city. The concept here on offer here is a combination of comfort, convenience and value for more independent-minded guests happy to explore local dining options. It’s just a short stroll from the leafy Parque Forestal into Lastarria – where there are several bars and eating options. The historic centre of the city with its Plaza de Armas, galleries and museums is within 15 minutes on foot.
Guest rooms have the essentials today’s leisure traveller would expect (and we recommend the Park rooms for a nicer aspect). The café serves breakfast daily and there’s space to unwind in the lobby lounge or terrace, which also has views towards the park and a small pool.
Transfer to the airport and fly to Chiloé, an island of mists and mysteries with a strong rural tradition, unique wood-shingled churches and fishermen’s houses on stilts.Upon arrival in Chiloé you have a guided visit by road to Dalcahue, a thriving fishing port on the east coast of the island.
The harbour is usually busy with colourfully-painted wooden fishing boats, while the town’s market is a good place to stop for lunch. Visit Dalcahue’s quaint 19th century wooden church, one of a staggering 16 Unesco World Heritage sites on the island.
Continue to the island’s busy capital Castro, about 10km south of Dalcahue. Castro is nowadays a busy, modern commercial centre but retains a small-town feel and has an evocative setting, straddling a bay enveloped by mist-shrouded, velvety-green hills. Castro’s soaring gothic-style wooden cathedral is among Chiloé’s most impressive attractions. A wonderfully photogenic row of traditional palafito stilt houses survives along its waterfront. In the evening you will have the opportunity to savour Chiloé’s culinary treat, the curanto, a meat and fish stew.
Palafito 1326 is on the shores of the Pacific Ocean and in the heart of the Palafitos de Gamboa neighbourhood, a 10 minute walk from the centre of the island’s capital, Castro. It is unusual for being contained in a renovated traditional palafito (house on stilts), blending perfectly with nearby houses and offering a unique accommodation experience.
The hotel has been decorated with more than a nod to local culture, incorporating original native woods and textiles. The well insulated and bright guest rooms are provided with thermal heating and large windows allow the passage of translucent daylight, with views towards Castro fjord and Gamboa river or over the street. Additionally, there’s an internet lounge, dining-living room and large terraces, and service is friendly and helpful.
Guided visit to Castro’s produce market, where the displays of seaweed, smoked shellfish, jumbo-sized fresh vegetables and hand-made cheeses showcase the island’s traditional agricultural and fishing-based economy.
Later you are driven north to the coastal hamlet of Qemchi, and cross by a rickety 500m wooden footbridge to tiny Isla Aucar. Its small botanical garden is a sanctuary of native Chilote flora, planted by a priest who managed the island’s 19th century chapel. Continue driving along the coast, with its small fishing communities and a bucolic backdrop of rolling hills, velvety pastures and quaint wooden churches. Stops will be made en route, including lunch with a local family or at a traditional restaurant.
Palafito 1326 is on the shores of the Pacific Ocean and in the heart of the Palafitos de Gamboa neighbourhood, a 10 minute walk from the centre of the island’s capital, Castro. It is unusual for being contained in a renovated traditional palafito (house on stilts), blending perfectly with nearby houses and offering a unique accommodation experience.
The hotel has been decorated with more than a nod to local culture, incorporating original native woods and textiles. The well insulated and bright guest rooms are provided with thermal heating and large windows allow the passage of translucent daylight, with views towards Castro fjord and Gamboa river or over the street. Additionally, there’s an internet lounge, dining-living room and large terraces, and service is friendly and helpful.
By road and ferry back to the mainland and Puerto Varas in the south of the lake district. This verdant region is criss-crossed with a network of scenic roads linking lakes – most of which seems to have a snow-capped volcanic cone dominating their cobalt waters and sleepy small towns and villages along the shoreline.
Puerto Varas is on the shores of Lake Llanquihue. The town was colonised by Germans at the turn of the 20th century and its architecture and sedate style reflects this, but it is now a fast-growing tourist resort. The town’s main attraction is an alpine green lake framed by tree-clad hills. Beyond is Osorno, one of the most perfectly shaped snow-capped volcanoes in the world. If you’re lucky enough to be in Puerto Varas on a clear and still evening, the sunsets over Osorno’s snowy mantle can be magical, best appreciated from the lakeshore promenade.
Perched on the edge of Lake Llanquihue in Chile’s lake district, the Cabaña del Lago is comfortable and well-equipped with a friendly, relaxed feel.
The hotel makes the most of its breathtaking views, where the skyline is dominated by the towering cone of Osorno volcano. The restaurants, outdoor terrace, two heated pools, hot tub and sauna all share a privileged vantage point over the lake from the hillside, while the huge 25m infinity pool has been designed to blend with the exquisite scenery beyond.
There are bright, spacious rooms, as well as individual cottages which come with fully-equipped kitchens. The décor is warm and neutral, with subdued tones and cosy blankets. In the main areas of the hotel, wood predominates in typical Patagonian style.
Guided day excursion to Alerce Andino National Park, created to protect the temperate rainforest of alerce (larch) trees, the largest in Chile. The alerce is a towering, magnificent, majestic tree; it can grow to 60m high with a diameter of up to 5m.
Although numbers were depleted by logging in the 19th and 20th century, there are individual specimens up to 3,000 years old, protected as national monuments. In their natural setting, together with other Patagonian species, they create a magical sylvan environment.
Perched on the edge of Lake Llanquihue in Chile’s lake district, the Cabaña del Lago is comfortable and well-equipped with a friendly, relaxed feel.
The hotel makes the most of its breathtaking views, where the skyline is dominated by the towering cone of Osorno volcano. The restaurants, outdoor terrace, two heated pools, hot tub and sauna all share a privileged vantage point over the lake from the hillside, while the huge 25m infinity pool has been designed to blend with the exquisite scenery beyond.
There are bright, spacious rooms, as well as individual cottages which come with fully-equipped kitchens. The décor is warm and neutral, with subdued tones and cosy blankets. In the main areas of the hotel, wood predominates in typical Patagonian style.
Transfer to Puerto Montt airport and fly to Balmaceda in the Aisén region. Collect your hire vehicle and set off on your exploration of the Carretera Austral and its link roads.
The 1,240km Austral Road (Carretera Austral) cuts a lonely swathe through some of Patagonia’s most pristine territory. Much of the highway is unpaved, a bumpy gravel track winding its way through craggy mountains and temperate rainforests, fording streams and skirting lakes. Glimpses of remote farmsteads, wood-shingle churches and sheepskin-clad horsemen are a reminder of the traditional way of life which survives here.
This self-drive route begins at Balmaceda (Coyhaique) airport and follows the southern section of the Austral Road for some 450km towards Caleta Tortel. Based at rustic but cosy lodges, you can wander on mountain trails, explore native forests, sail on beautiful lakes and hike to glaciers. The scenery seems to change with every turn and the flexibility of being able to stop whenever you please to take in the views – and to take pictures – is part of the beauty of self-drive.
Today you’ll drive to Puerto Rio Tranquilo for 2 nights. Dry Pampa will gradually give way to green forests, mountains and glacial valleys as you cross the pass at the National Reserve of Cerro Castillo. The journey is approximately 195 kilometres, taking around 5 hours to drive, of which 3-4 hours will be on unpaved road.
The small, well-kept Hostel el Puesto, set on the banks of the Rio Tranquilo, is a cosy and convivial base for explorations in the surrounding Patagonian landscape, including to the nearby Capillas de Mármol. Though the six guestrooms and private cottages are simply appointed, care has been put into thoughtful touches that go beyond what you’d expect of a hotel in this category. Also much-commented-on by guests is the friendliness of the staff, who are more than happy to share their wide knowledge of the local area.
The inviting living room, warmed by an old-fashioned stove, is a lovely place to take respite after a hike or simply to curl up with a book when it’s inhospitable outside. There’s also a tiny restaurant serving home-cooked fare. Décor is in typical rustic Patagonian style throughout, making use of local materials with a particular emphasis on wood. Given the size of the lodge, there’s a surprising range of extra services – picnic lunches, massage, laundry, games for children and internet access are all offered, and there’s even a small shop for picking up provisions.
At leisure to explore the area. You might hire a boat and guide in Lake General Carrera to reach the Marble Cathedral, an impressive eroded marble boulder the size of a large house just off marble cliffs with substantial caves. The stippled surface would do a sculptor proud and the turquoise waters over white marble look positively tropical.
You could alternatively drive along the extremely scenic side road from town which runs 58 km toward the Exploradores glacier, quite breathtaking scenery (4-wheel drive may be needed).
The small, well-kept Hostel el Puesto, set on the banks of the Rio Tranquilo, is a cosy and convivial base for explorations in the surrounding Patagonian landscape, including to the nearby Capillas de Mármol. Though the six guestrooms and private cottages are simply appointed, care has been put into thoughtful touches that go beyond what you’d expect of a hotel in this category. Also much-commented-on by guests is the friendliness of the staff, who are more than happy to share their wide knowledge of the local area.
The inviting living room, warmed by an old-fashioned stove, is a lovely place to take respite after a hike or simply to curl up with a book when it’s inhospitable outside. There’s also a tiny restaurant serving home-cooked fare. Décor is in typical rustic Patagonian style throughout, making use of local materials with a particular emphasis on wood. Given the size of the lodge, there’s a surprising range of extra services – picnic lunches, massage, laundry, games for children and internet access are all offered, and there’s even a small shop for picking up provisions.
Drive to Caleta Tortel via the town Cochrane. The road is unpaved all the way and, although there are stretches where you travel in a straight line, much is along winding roads, going up and down the mountains with vertiginous drops. The road passes through exquisite landscapes – ancient woodland clinging to near vertical cliffs, deep emerald foliage, mirror-clear glacial lakes of different shapes and colours, spikey mountains rising behind – everywhere is a good photo opportunity. The drive takes around 8 hours including stops.
Operated by husband and wife team Noel and Maria Paz, Entre Hielos Lodge is a small boutique hotel cosily clad with honey-toned wood throughout, giving it the feel of a ski chalet or log cabin – ideal for relaxing in after a long day exploring the wilderness of the remote Carretera Austral. The overall feeling is one of warmth, not just as a result of the glowing fireplaces that heat comfortable living spaces packed with books and photos, but due to the friendliness and hospitality of the hosts.
Maria Paz is a former architect and has designed each of the six snug rooms to give unique views of the stunning landscape that surrounds the property. Guests are extremely well looked after and there’s a genuine welcome which leaves you feeling as though you’ve been staying with friends. Home-cooked meals add to the family atmosphere, with Maria serving up delicious traditional Patagonian dishes using local ingredients, and there are local excursions run by Noel who takes guests out in his boat to see the glaciers and banks of the Rio Baker.
At leisure to enjoy this gorgeous scenery. The extraordinary village of Tortel was founded in 1955 to exploit the cypress wood that was (and still is) abundant in the area and for most of its history the only access was by air and boat – the road was only built in 2003. Occupying a creek, it has wooden walkways instead of streets, set on in different levels and connecting houses which, in turn, are all on stilts. The village is very tranquil with just a few shops and a couple of simple restaurants.
Operated by husband and wife team Noel and Maria Paz, Entre Hielos Lodge is a small boutique hotel cosily clad with honey-toned wood throughout, giving it the feel of a ski chalet or log cabin – ideal for relaxing in after a long day exploring the wilderness of the remote Carretera Austral. The overall feeling is one of warmth, not just as a result of the glowing fireplaces that heat comfortable living spaces packed with books and photos, but due to the friendliness and hospitality of the hosts.
Maria Paz is a former architect and has designed each of the six snug rooms to give unique views of the stunning landscape that surrounds the property. Guests are extremely well looked after and there’s a genuine welcome which leaves you feeling as though you’ve been staying with friends. Home-cooked meals add to the family atmosphere, with Maria serving up delicious traditional Patagonian dishes using local ingredients, and there are local excursions run by Noel who takes guests out in his boat to see the glaciers and banks of the Rio Baker.
Retrace your route 198 kilometres back up north today to Puerto Guadal. En route you could visit the Tamango National Reserve (30mins from Cochrane) or explore the Chacabuco valley. The scenery from this perspective is as stunning as before, the journey takes about 6hrs.
Puerto Guadal is back on Lake General Carrera, this time on the southwest corner. You stay on the shores of the lake across from the village, with magnificent views across the water. Blessed with a micro-climate that virtually guarantees the best weather in the region (and more days of sunshine than most other lakeside communities) Puerto Guadal is fast becoming a destination of choice for visitors. In spring and summer the meadows are ablaze with colour as thousands of lupins and other plants come into flower. In February the village stages a week-long fiesta where one can watch Chilean-style horse racing and traditional games like La Taba. There’s plenty of traditional Patagonian food to sample.
Wood and glass define this idyllic Aisén hideaway, the former setting the tone of the architecture and the latter offering up superb views out over the sweeping mountain scenery via large picture windows throughout the property. Built from local lenga wood, the buildings blend easily into the surrounding landscape: a quintessential vision of unspoilt Patagonia.
Tucked away from all traces of civilisation, the Mirador de Guadel’s eight self-contained cabins are spread apart from each other on the gently sloping hillside or down by the lakeshore. The décor has a stylish and inviting alpine feel, with wood panelling predominating, and rooms are light and spacious. A private terrace provides a delightful spot to take in the breathtaking natural panorama all around while a traditional stove keeps rooms warm and cosy on cold starlit nights.
There is a restaurant serving traditional Chilean and international dishes using home-grown ingredients, and various activities can be arranged – there are horses for those who want to ride, many unguided trails to explore, and trips to nearby glaciers and waterfalls available at extra cost.
At leisure. Your accommodation hosts may suggest some adventures in the vicinity, such as a walk to a waterfall on the Maquis river, just east of town on the road to Chile Chico. There are multiple cascades as the river tumbles over steep cliffs and through dense coigüe and ñire forests as it empties into the lake.
Alternatively you might drive to a mine, abandoned in 1986 by a French mining company. The old mining installations and machinery used to mine deposits of lead, zinc and copper are still in place.
Wood and glass define this idyllic Aisén hideaway, the former setting the tone of the architecture and the latter offering up superb views out over the sweeping mountain scenery via large picture windows throughout the property. Built from local lenga wood, the buildings blend easily into the surrounding landscape: a quintessential vision of unspoilt Patagonia.
Tucked away from all traces of civilisation, the Mirador de Guadel’s eight self-contained cabins are spread apart from each other on the gently sloping hillside or down by the lakeshore. The décor has a stylish and inviting alpine feel, with wood panelling predominating, and rooms are light and spacious. A private terrace provides a delightful spot to take in the breathtaking natural panorama all around while a traditional stove keeps rooms warm and cosy on cold starlit nights.
There is a restaurant serving traditional Chilean and international dishes using home-grown ingredients, and various activities can be arranged – there are horses for those who want to ride, many unguided trails to explore, and trips to nearby glaciers and waterfalls available at extra cost.
Drive back to Balmaceda airport (6 hrs); drop off your vehicle. Fly to Santiago; transfer to your hotel.
Ismael is a sleek, modern property facing the Parque Forestal on the edge of the bohemian neighbourhood of Lastarria. With just 40 or so guest rooms it’s feels more personal than larger chain-style properties in the city. The concept here on offer here is a combination of comfort, convenience and value for more independent-minded guests happy to explore local dining options. It’s just a short stroll from the leafy Parque Forestal into Lastarria – where there are several bars and eating options. The historic centre of the city with its Plaza de Armas, galleries and museums is within 15 minutes on foot.
Guest rooms have the essentials today’s leisure traveller would expect (and we recommend the Park rooms for a nicer aspect). The café serves breakfast daily and there’s space to unwind in the lobby lounge or terrace, which also has views towards the park and a small pool.
At leisure to explore Santiago. A mixture of chic, residential areas and smart office towers surround the compact colonial centre. If you set off from the University district, you will see the elegant 19th century mansions of the old aristocracy en route to the Plaza de Armas (Main Square) and historic municipal and cultural buildings.
We suggest you continue to the Italian-influenced neighbourhood Bellavista with its cobbled streets, cafés and gift shops. There’s a panoramic view of the city from Cerro Santa Lucía, a hilltop park. If you have time, a funicular tram or cable car can take you to the top of Cerro San Cristóbal. There’s a swimming pool and other family friendly amenities, and you have a panoramic view of the city and the snow-draped Andean mountains beyond.
Ismael is a sleek, modern property facing the Parque Forestal on the edge of the bohemian neighbourhood of Lastarria. With just 40 or so guest rooms it’s feels more personal than larger chain-style properties in the city. The concept here on offer here is a combination of comfort, convenience and value for more independent-minded guests happy to explore local dining options. It’s just a short stroll from the leafy Parque Forestal into Lastarria – where there are several bars and eating options. The historic centre of the city with its Plaza de Armas, galleries and museums is within 15 minutes on foot.
Guest rooms have the essentials today’s leisure traveller would expect (and we recommend the Park rooms for a nicer aspect). The café serves breakfast daily and there’s space to unwind in the lobby lounge or terrace, which also has views towards the park and a small pool.
The places you’ll stay and explore on this tour. Here’s a closer look at each one and what makes it worth the trip.
Chile - Santiago and the vineyards
Snow-capped Andean peaks overlook cosmopolitan neighbourhoods, historic plazas and sun-drenched vineyards in Santiago Chile – the country’s sophisticated capital and its surrounding wine country. Combining urban culture with world-class wineries, Santiago and vineyards nearby give you the perfect introduction to Chile.
Chile - Chilean Lake District (south)
Snow-capped volcanoes, blue lakes, ancient forests and lakeside towns with a distinct Bavarian streak: the southern Chilean Lake District is one of the country’s most beautiful regions, and one of the most rewarding to explore. Chilean Lake District holidays combine spectacular scenery with outdoor adventure, and local culture.
Chile - Aysen and the Carretera Austral
Glacier-carved valleys, temperate rainforests, fjords, turquoise rivers and jagged mountain peaks stretch for hundreds of kilometres through one of Patagonia’s last great wilderness frontiers. Aysén Patagonia and the Carretera Austral offer an unforgettable journey into the wild heart of the region.
This self-drive Chile holiday goes off the beaten track to discover some of the more sparsely populated corners of this wildly beautiful country, including the Carretera Austral, only completed in the early 1980s and the first proper road to negotiate this fractured region of fjords, glaciers and rivers.
A 4,000km long, skinny coastal strip backed by the Andes mountain range, Chile has a variety of climate and landscape to match its changing latitudes. This holiday explores a little visited part of Patagonia.
First, we take you exploring the back-roads of the deeply traditional island of Chiloé and intact, ancient forests in the lake district. The most rewarding way to explore your next destination, Aysén (Chile’s Region XI), is in your own hire vehicle. An area of staggering natural beauty, Aysén was for centuries neglected: its fractured landscape of fjords and glaciers hard to negotiate, its agricultural potential meagre, its natural resources hidden away. Political dissidents were sent into exile here, and immigrants from persecution also found peace among the pines.
Now the region, long favoured by fishermen, is opening up to visitors and becoming popular with outdoor adventure activities enthusiasts. The Austral Road offers one of South America’s great iconic road trips with scenery of almost unimaginable beauty. To help you on your way, all your hotels are pre-booked and we have suggested a route to help you get the most out of this magnificent region.
Hannah Waterhouse
All of our experts have lived or travelled extensively in Latin America, so you will receive unrivalled advice based on unique personal experiences.
The practical detail for this tour, all in one place. Transport, accommodation, what’s included and what to pack, so you know exactly what to expect before you go.
- Transport
3 domestic flights; 2 ferries, self-drive car route.
- Accommodation
We’ve chosen small and friendly mid-range guesthouses and cosy rural lodges; all are comfortable and well located for exploration of the area. They all have well-equipped rooms, private bathrooms and heating. Our favourite, Cabañas Mirador del Guadal, has heavenly views of Lago General Carrera in deepest Patagonia.
- Meals
Breakfast daily, lunch days 2,3 & 5.
- Guides
We carefully select our local partners in Latin America, some of whom we have worked with for over 25 years. Their English-speaking guides understand the expectations of our clients very well, and are consistently singled out for praise by the latter on their return.
- Summary Of Nights
14 days, 13 nights: Santiago 1, Castro 2; Puerto Varas 2; Puerto Tranquilo 2; Caleta Tortel 2; Puerto Guardal 2; Santiago 2.
- Daily Spend
It is very difficult to give a guideline for essential expenses but a budget of around US$50 per person per day should cover the cost of meals not included in the holiday itinerary, drinks and the odd souvenir. Eat at the best restaurants and you will pay considerably more.
A budget of approx US$200 should be sufficient to cover fuel costs for the self drive sections.
- Currency
The unit of currency in Chile is the peso.
- How To Take It
Cash machines are available in Santiago, Castro and Puerto Varas and so taking a debit or credit card with a PIN number is the most convenient way of withdrawing money while on your trip, and in most shops and restaurants you can also pay by card. However, since cards can get lost, damaged, withheld or blocked, you should not rely exclusively on a card to access funds.
We recommend that additionally you take a reasonable quantity of US dollars cash (no more than is covered by your insurance), which you can exchange into local currency in the larger towns, and possibly some travellers’ cheques, though these are gradually falling out of use (American Express are the most widely accepted). Dollar bills should be in good condition, soiled or torn bills may be refused.
Have a ready supply of Chilean pesos for spending in the self-drive section where there are few working ATMs and credit cards may not be accepted.
- Tipping
Tips are expected and local guides often rely on their tip as a significant proportion of their income.
Most service industry workers will expect a tip of some kind and so it is useful to have spare change for hotel porters, taxi drivers and the like. It is common to leave 10 – 12% in restaurants.
- Insurance And Documents
Travel insurance is essential.
Details of our recommended policy can be found on our Travel Insurance page.Car Insurance:
Your vehicle hire includes limited CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) insurance with an excess payable of approx US$1,150-US$1,800 in the event of loss or damage. Limits and certain exclusions do apply. Please contact us for further details.From 8 June 2015 new regulations will apply concerning the paper counterpart of UK driving licences. This may affect what is required by the rental company when you collect your car.Please check https://www.gov.uk/government/news/driving-licence-changes for further details.
- Trip Suitability
This is partly a self-driving holiday for independent-minded clients seeking the freedom to explore without the support of local guides and drivers but with the security of pre-booked accommodation. You should be confident to navigate along roads outside the UK, driving on the right. Some Spanish as well as mechanical knowledge, for example the ability to change a tyre, is highly recommended.
The self-drive section is off-the-beaten-track Patagonia for adventurous travellers; there are few services for travellers en route; fill up with petrol whenever you can. Routes travelled in the Aisén region are all on gravel roads for which 4-wheel drive is advisable. Let us know if you have a strong preference for automatic or manual transmission as vehicles supplied can vary. GPS equipment is not normally available but you will receive basic written directions and we will send you our Rules of the Road document with helpful tips specific to driving in Chile.
- Climate
In the Santiago area expect a Mediterranean type climate though it can snow in winter (June-August). In October, November, March and April temperatures range between 15°C and 25°C and there’s a good deal of sunshine. January and February are hot, around 30°C or higher.
The lake district has a weather pattern not dissimilar to that of the UK, though summers tend to be hotter and sunnier and winters wetter.
The Aisén region has a cool temperate climate, in places close to the coast it rains up to 300 days a year but in others, such as the area around Coyhaique, a rain shadow effect reduces precipitation. Warm sunshine is possible during the summer (Dec-Mar). However, as in all parts of Patagonia you should anticipate encountering all seasons, especially in the shoulder months of November and April. It can be very cold in winter (May-September), when roads may be blocked and hotels are closed.
- Clothing And Special Equipment
For day-to-day wear you should go prepared to encounter all seasons. Both clothing for both hot and cold conditions including sun hat a light fleece jacket and a Gore-Tex (or similar) outer shell. Trousers, skirt or shorts made from light, quick-drying synthetic materials work well. If you plan to eat in smart restaurants in Santiago, although clothing is not formal (no need for jacket and tie), something quite smart would be appropriate. Strong, comfortable footwear is essential and you should bring umbrella, insect repellent, sun block and sun glasses. You might take swimwear for the odd dip in a natural pool.
- Vaccinations
Preventative vaccinations are recommended against the following: typhoid; polio; tetanus; hepatitis A. You should consult your GP for specific requirements.
You can also find helpful information on the Masta Travel Health website.
- Visas
Holders of a full British passport do not require a visa, although passports must be valid for at least 6 months after the trip begins. Anyone with a different nationality should enquire with us or check with the relevant consulate.
If flying to the US, or via the US you will need to fill in your online ESTA application.
- Airport Taxes
If you have purchased your flights through Journey Latin America, the international departure tax is usually included in the ticket.
- Do I need a visa to visit Chile?
British passport holders don’t need a visa for tourist visits. Your passport should be valid for at least six months from the start of your trip. If you’re routing through the US, you’ll need an ESTA in advance. Always check the latest entry requirements before you travel, as rules can change.
- How do I get to Chile from the UK?
British Airways flies direct from London Heathrow to Santiago, taking around 14.5 hours. There are also connecting routes via Madrid, Paris and other European hubs. We arrange all flights and transfers, and can quote them separately based on your dates.
- What's the best way to travel around Chile?
The country’s length makes domestic flights the most practical way to cover long distances, with most routes connecting through Santiago. Within regions, we arrange private transfers and guided excursions. For scenic stretches like the Lake District or the Carretera Austral, overland travel is part of the experience.
- What currency does Chile use?
The official currency is the Chilean peso. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, and ATMs are available in most towns. Carry some cash for tips, smaller purchases and rural areas. We’ll advise on the latest currency situation before you travel.
- What's the altitude like in Chile?
Most of Chile sits at low to moderate altitude, but parts of the Atacama, including Lauca National Park and areas around San Pedro, reach over 3,000m. Altitude can cause headaches, dizziness and breathlessness, so it’s important to acclimatise gradually, drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol on arrival. We plan all itineraries with altitude in mind.
- How long should I spend in Chile?
Two weeks works well for a single focus, such as the Atacama with a few days in Santiago, or Torres del Paine with time in the lake district. To cover Chile’s full range, from desert to Patagonia, allow three weeks or more. We’ll help you build an itinerary that makes the most of your time.
- Do I need vaccinations for Chile?
There are currently no mandatory vaccines for UK travellers visiting Chile, but we always recommend checking the most up-to-date requirements well before travelling. You can do this by visiting TravelHealthPro and FCDO travel pages. Alternatively, you can contact us and speak to one of our experts who can advise on any current considerations for the areas you’re visiting.
- What countries can I combine with Chile?
Chile pairs naturally with Argentina, crossing the Andes from Santiago to Mendoza, or the lakes from Puerto Varas to Bariloche. Bolivia is an easy add-on from the Atacama, with routes through the Salar de Uyuni salt flats. Our Travel Experts can design a multi-country trip around you.
Why choose Journey Latin America for your holiday
We’ve been planning trips to Central and South America for over 45 years, longer than any other UK specialist. Every holiday is built around you by a Travel Expert who has been to the places they recommend, with support from your first enquiry to the day you fly home.
Rosie embarked on a year-long backpacking trip across Latin America. She is excited to share her knowledge and experiences with others.
Finn discovered his passion for travel on an extensive 18-month trip to Latin America, experiencing the vibrant Carnaval in Rio, the end-of-the-world city of Ushuaia, trekking the Andes and volunteering on the Galápagos Islands.
Maggie visited Latin America on her first backpacking trip when she was 19. Since then, she has taken every opportunity to travel, and has managed to explore a lot of the region in subsequent trips.
Gary discovered what he had been missing with his first foray into the wilds of Latin America. In his role as Product Manager, he combines this personal obsession with years of industry experience to help ensure that travellers will fall for the region every bit as much as he has.
Things to do
We proudly offer the widest range of activities, excursions and one-of-a-kind experiences across all our destinations, tried and tested personally by our travel experts.
Accommodation
Browse our unrivalled portfolio of accommodation. Every option has been carefully chosen by our team of travel experts, so you can rest assured that you will relax in utter comfort
Ismael offers comfort, convenience and value for guests seeking a base close to the historic centre of Santiago.
Large, modern hotel with magnificent views from its hillside location overlooking Lake Llanquihue and Osorno volcano.
Palafito 1326 is an unusual hotel-on-stilts offers the opportunity to experience life above the water in Chiloe’s capital, Castro.
If there’s somewhere you particularly want to go that isn’t included in this tour, we can add on an extension to take you there.
Atacama
The Atacama’s inhospitable desert landscape is harsh and rugged, but it echoes the legacy of its pre-Columbian inhabitants, while the volcanoes and geysers hiss into life. Oases splash the tawny landscape with vigorous vegetation. A few days here will give you a surprisingly varied experience of desert life. Day 1: Fly from Santiago to Calama…
Easter Island
Polynesian Easter Island (Rapa Nui) lies 3,790km off the Chilean coast in the remote sub-tropical South Pacific. Windswept and grassy on one side, lushly vegetated on the other, and with a benign climate, it is famous for the clusters of huge enigmatic stone heads standing starkly against an azure skyline. Experience the unique atmosphere and…
A former Journey Latin America tour leader, Sally spent 7 years working, travelling and living throughout Latin America before returning to the UK to help people arrange their own adventures to this wonderful destination.
Papagaio
Our exciting range of articles on Latin America explore everything from iconic destinations and lesser-known cultural gems to delicious traditional recipes. You’ll also find exclusive travel tips, first-hand client reviews and the chance to get your personal questions answered by our travel experts.
Featured Articles
To round the corner of a mountain and see the lost citadel of Machu Picchu unfold beneath you remains one of the most awe-inspiring experiences in Latin America, one of those dreamlike experiences that makes travelling here truly extraordinary.
The Pantanal wetlands cover an area almost the size of the British Isles and offers better wildlife opportunities than the Amazon. Writer and photographer Alex Bellos discovers them.
Small, breathtakingly beautiful Costa Rica is a treasure trove for the nature lover. Trees laden with orchids are home to quetzals and hummingbirds, while the Caribbean shore hosts volcanic beaches and palm-sheltered coves.
